3496 - Approaches to Vancouver Harbour Nautical Chart

The Gateway to the Pacific: 3496 - Approaches to Vancouver Harbour

Navigate the bustling and scenic waters of the West Coast with the professional precision of the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS). Chart 3496 is the indispensable "road map" for all mariners entering Vancouver Harbour, covering the critical transit from the open waters of the Strait of Georgia through English Bay to the First Narrows.

Precision Engineering for High-Traffic Waterways

As the largest port in Canada, Vancouver’s approaches are a complex environment of deep-sea tankers, cruise ships, tugboats, and thousands of recreational vessels. CHS Chart 3496 provides the vital data required to manage this density safely:

• Large-Scale Harbour Detail: Features a highly detailed 1:20,000 scale, providing granular data for navigating the restricted waters and designated anchorage areas of English Bay.

• Critical Depth & Bathymetry: Displays precise water depths and the nature of the sea bottom—essential for deep-draft vessels entering the Burrard Inlet and for recreationalists anchoring near Jericho Beach.

• Navigational Hazards & Aids: Clearly marks the lateral buoys, lighted beacons, and landmarks like the Lions Gate Bridge and Point Atkinson that are vital for visual and radar pilotage.

• Traffic Separation & Anchorages: Includes clearly defined traffic separation schemes and designated anchorage spots, helping mariners stay compliant with Port of Vancouver regulations.

Essential for Commercial & Recreational Safety

Under the Canada Shipping Act, most commercial and large recreational vessels are required to carry the latest editions of official CHS charts. Whether you are a ship's pilot, a local sailing enthusiast, or a visitor exploring the coast, Chart 3496 provides the "ground-truth" data needed for safe passage in this world-class maritime environment.